Alessandro Bonci Italian opera singer (lyric tenor). Date of Birth: 10.02.1870 Country: Italy

1. Biography of Alessandro Bonci
2. Early Education and Training
3. Success in Opera
4. International Career and Fame
5. War and Return to the Stage

Biography of Alessandro Bonci

Alessandro Bonci was an Italian opera singer (lyric tenor) born in the city of Cesena, Forlì-Cesena, Italy in 1870. Despite growing up in poverty and working as a shoe cleaner on the streets, Bonci had a passion for music and an exceptional ear, which eventually earned him a scholarship at the Conservatorio Statale di Musica 'G. Rossini' in Pesaro, Italy.

Early Education and Training

At the conservatory, Bonci studied under renowned vocal teacher Carlo Pedrotti for five years. He also took lessons from the famous baritone Enrico Delle Sedie during the mid-1800s. In 1896, Bonci made his debut performance in Parma, Italy, where he performed a role in Giuseppe Verdi's opera "Falstaff."

Success in Opera

Bonci's youthful voice captivated audiences, leading to a role at the prestigious Teatro alla Scala in Milan. Over the following years, he performed at renowned theatres such as the Royal Opera House in London and Covent Garden, also located in London.

International Career and Fame

On December 3, 1906, Bonci made his first visit to America, where he gave a concert in New York City, performing the opera "I Puritani" in one of its theaters. He continued to perform with the Manhattan Opera Company and became a frequent guest at the famous Metropolitan Opera in New York. Bonci also gave concerts in Chicago and other opera houses across the United States.

War and Return to the Stage

During World War I, Bonci joined the Italian army. After the war, he returned to America and resumed his concert career. His last stage appearance was in 1935, and he passed away in Rimini, Italy, in 1940. Unlike many opera singers of his time, Bonci recorded several of his concerts, making them readily available to audiences today.